Forest Bathing
with Mary Alice Mastrovito
Attend one or attend them all!
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Saturday, November 16
Arrival - 1:45 p.m.
Program - 2:00-4:30 p.m.
Location TBD
A Mystical Journey Through Nature
Step into the sacred space of the forest for a transformative afternoon of renewal and connection as you experience the mystical practice of Guided Forest Bathing.
What You Can Expect:
- Certified Expertise
This journey will be led by a certified Forest Bathing guide, trained to help you access the deep, healing energies of the forest.
- Total Immersion:
As you walk mindfully through the forest, you will attune to the subtle energies around you. Let the forest hold you. As we move into autumn, feel the invitation to release anything you’re ready to let go of into the nurturing embrace of the earth.
- Full Sensory Engagement:
Awaken your senses as the forest reveals its magic. Experience the sights, sounds, and sensations of nature in a guided, sensory-rich exploration that calms the mind, opens the heart, and connects you to the spirit of the land.
- Personal Reflection:
Take time in silence to connect more deeply with yourself and the earth’s energies, especially as we honor the balance of the Autumn Equinox—when day and night are equal, reminding us of the harmony in nature and within ourselves.
- Community Sharing:
Share insights and experiences, reflecting on the gifts of the forest and this special moment in the seasonal cycle.
Why Forest Bathing?
More than a walk in the woods, Forest Bathing is a research-based practice that promotes mental clarity, emotional balance, and spiritual connection. As we walk through the forest, we will honor the shifting energies of the season—releasing, renewing, and finding balance within ourselves and with the earth.
Program Details:
- Our journey will cover less than a mile over easy terrain, with frequent pauses to engage fully with the forest. This experience is suitable for most ability levels.
- Group sizes are small to ensure personalized attention and a deep, intimate connection with the forest and each other.
Fee:
- $35 Non-Members
- $28 Members
Ready to Connect? Spaces are limited. Reserve your place in this mystical and restorative event, and reconnect with the forest, yourself, and the energies of the Autumn Equinox.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve tried hiking groups and I can’t keep up.
Forest Therapy walks are slow and easy meanderings on an established trail. We typically walk less than a mile during a 2 or 3 hour walk with frequent stops. The focus of a Forest Therapy walk is the experience of immersion into nature while opening your senses to all the elements present. How fast or how far we walk does not come into consideration. If you have specific concerns, please contact me. A few of the trails are suitable for those with temporary or permanent mobility issues who use walking aides like walkers or canes.
What do I need to bring to a Forest Therapy walk? How do I prepare?
The most important preparation is to dress for the weather. Be comfortable. Because our slow meandering will not be building up much body heat, you may want to have an additional layer on hand in case you are chilly. Always bring water. Always wear suitable shoes. Flip flops are not suitable footwear for this activity.
Some people also bring sunscreen and a small backpack and journal. And of course, any personal medical needs like an EpiPen or other medication.
What are the Benefits of Forest Therapy?
Studies show that a regular Forest Bathing Practice can have the following benefits:
- Boosts the immune system
- Lowers blood pressure
- Reduces stress
- Improves mood
- Enhances focus, even in children with ADHD
- Accelerates recovery from surgery or illness
- Increases energy levels
- Improves sleep
- And…expands our heart as we shift into a vibrant, resilient, relationship of reciprocity.
Who is the “Therapist” in Forest Therapy?
The Guide Opens the Door. The Forest is the Therapist
It is now widely accepted that time in Nature is good for us…but there is so much more to it than that.
Forest Therapy is a practice that encourages us to remember how to live in balance, harmony, and deep relationship with ourselves, each other, and the entire more-than-human world.
Together we create a safe and creative space where we can practice dropping the old attitude of human dominance and growing into a new relationship of respect and responsibility with all life.
Together we build habits that support us off the trail as well. These habits include things like awareness, presence, openness, and observation.
About the Facilitator
Mary Alice Mastrovito
Certified Forest Bathing Guide
Mary Alice’s professional life began in the fields of music and teaching before moving on to careers in horticulture, including her own garden design and maintenance business. Through it all, she felt an interest in healing in the broadest sense and a deepening personal spirituality. Later, she pursued certifications in Reiki, Flower Essences, Nature and Forest Therapy, and ordination as an inter-faith minister. Through it all, Nature has been her cherished and trusted partner, guiding her through her personal evolution. Learn more on her website at https://lookingdeeper.com/.
